Nearly 50 million people visit Turkey yearly for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. If you plan to join them, you will have an unforgettable experience. Picture a 14-day trip from London to Turkey, where you’ll explore ancient ruins, bustling markets, and stunning scenery.
This guide will help you plan the perfect trip, from the grand mosques of Istanbul to the unique landscapes of Cappadocia and the beautiful beaches of the Turkish Riviera.
Get ready as we dive into a day-by-day plan to make the most of your two-week adventure in Turkey, capturing every magical moment.
14 Days Turkey Trip: Day-by-Day Guide
Day 1: Departure from London to Istanbul
Start your adventure by booking a direct flight from Heathrow Airport (LHR) in London to Istanbul Airport (IST) in Istanbul, Türkiye. The flight typically takes about 4 hours and costs around £400 for a round trip. Istanbul Airport is one of the largest in the world, handling over 90 million passengers annually. You’ll be greeted by IST's stunning architecture and efficient services upon arrival, setting the tone for your Turkish journey. With its historical and modern attractions blend, Istanbul promises an unforgettable start to your adventure.
Car Rental at Istanbul Airport
After departing from the terminal, head to the car rental counters at the airport. It’s advisable to book your rental car for a Turkey road trip in advance to ensure availability and better rates. Choose a spacious and comfortable vehicle for your needs, especially if you’re traveling with family. Expect to pay around €30-€50 per day for a mid-size car rental. From here, you’re all set to explore the rich culture and scenic landscapes of Türkiye.
Requirements to Rent a Car in Turkey
You must meet specific age, documentation, and insurance requirements to rent a car in Turkey. Here's what you need to know:
Age Requirements
- You must be at least 21 years old to rent a car.
- Drivers under 23 may incur an additional fee. Some companies require drivers to be at least 25 for certain vehicle types.
- Some rental agencies have a maximum age limit, typically between 70 and 75 years.
Documentation Needed
- You must have a valid driver's license. If your license is outside the Latin alphabet (e.g., Arabic, Chinese), you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- A valid passport is required for entry into Turkey. If your country requires one, ensure your visa is valid.
- A credit card is needed to pay and hold a security deposit, usually around $1000 or €900.
Insurance Requirements
Understand the coverage options available. They must meet the same insurance requirements for car rental if you plan to have additional drivers.
Driving Considerations in Turkey
Standard vehicles typically require at least one year of driving experience, and luxury models require two years. Familiarize yourself with local driving laws and speed limits: 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on highways, and 120 km/h on motorways.
Accommodation and Food
For your stay in Istanbul, budget hotels cost around €50-€70 per night, while mid-range hotels range from €100-€150 per night. Consider staying in the Sultanahmet area for easy access to major attractions like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
Eating out in Istanbul can be affordable. A meal at a local restaurant might cost about €10-€15 per person. Don’t miss trying local delicacies like kebabs, mezes, and baklava.
Additional Tips
- Fuel in Turkey costs about 36.86 Turkish Liras (~€1.25). Plan your fuel stops and budget accordingly.
- Use a GPS or a reliable map app on your phone to navigate Istanbul’s streets.
- Buy a local SIM card at the airport for internet access and easier communication.
By following these tips and planning ahead, your first day in Istanbul will be smooth and enjoyable, setting the stage for an incredible road trip through Turkey.
Days 2-3: Explore Istanbul
Start your Istanbul adventure by visiting iconic landmarks. Begin with Hagia Sophia, a stunning historical site that has served as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum. Entry costs about €10. Right nearby is the Blue Mosque, renowned for its beautiful blue tiles. It’s free to enter, but donations are welcome.
Next, head to Topkapi Palace, where Ottoman sultans once lived. The entry fee is around €15, and seeing the palace's opulent rooms and treasures is worth it. Don't miss the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Here, you can shop for souvenirs, spices, and unique Turkish goods. Bargaining is common, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices.
Enjoy the Bosphorus and Taksim Square
A Bosphorus cruise is a must-do, costing about €20 for a tour. You’ll get stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline and bridges. In the evening, explore Taksim Square, the heart of modern Istanbul, filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers.
Accommodation and Food
Stay in Sultanahmet or Taksim. Budget hotels cost around €50-€70 per night, while mid-range options range from €100-€150 per night. For meals, enjoy local cuisine at a variety of eateries. A meal at a traditional Turkish restaurant might cost €10-€15 per person. Try dishes like kebabs, mezes, and the famous Turkish delight.
Planning well lets you make the most of your time in Istanbul, soaking in its rich history and vibrant culture.
Day 4: Istanbul to Ankara
Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast before departing Istanbul. Drive to Ankara, Turkey’s capital. The journey covers approximately 450 km and takes about 5-6 hours. The highways are well-maintained, and you'll pass through some beautiful countryside.
Explore Ankara
Upon arrival in Ankara, head straight to Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. Entry is free, and it's a deeply moving experience.
Next, visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which houses artifacts from prehistoric times. The entry fee is around €6, providing a fascinating insight into Turkey's rich history.
Finally, explore Ankara Castle. Wander through the ancient walls and enjoy panoramic views of the city. It’s free to enter, and nearby, you can find charming streets filled with cafes and shops.
Accommodation and Food
Stay overnight in a central hotel. Budget hotels cost around €40-€60 per night, while mid-range hotels range from €80-€120. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant; traditional Turkish meals typically cost about €10-€15 per person. Try dishes like "iskender kebab" and "manti" (Turkish dumplings).
Your day in Ankara will be enriching and enjoyable, with a mix of historical sites and modern comforts.
Days 5-6: Ankara to Cappadocia
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before leaving Ankara for Cappadocia. The drive is approximately 280 km and takes about 3-4 hours. Enjoy the scenic journey through Turkey’s central Anatolian region. Upon arrival, be prepared to be amazed by Cappadocia's unique landscape.
Day 5: Discovering Cappadocia
Rock Formations and Fairy Chimneys: Visit the iconic rock formations and fairy chimneys. These geological wonders are perfect for photography and short hikes.
Hot Air Balloon Ride: Book a hot air balloon ride for an unforgettable experience. Prices range from €150-€200 per person, and the ride offers breathtaking landscape views at sunrise.
Day 6: Deeper Exploration
Goreme Open-Air Museum: This UNESCO World Heritage site features ancient cave churches and frescoes. Entry costs around €8.
Underground Cities: Explore Derinkuyu or Kaymakli, underground cities that once sheltered entire communities. Entrance fees are about €6.
Accommodation and Food
Stay in a cave hotel for a unique experience. Budget options are around €50-€70 per night, while mid-range hotels cost €80-€120. Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine at local restaurants, with meals costing around €10-€15 per person. Don’t miss trying “testi kebab” (pottery kebab) and “gozleme” (savory pancakes).
Day 7: Cappadocia to Konya
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast in Cappadocia before setting off for Konya. The drive is approximately 230 km and takes about 3 hours. Enjoy the scenic drive through Turkey’s central region.
Explore Konya
Mevlana Museum: Start at the Mevlana Museum, the resting place of the famous poet and Sufi mystic Rumi. Entry is free, and the museum offers a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
Alaeddin Hill: Visit Alaeddin Hill, a historic park offering panoramic city views. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely walk and some relaxation.
Selimiye Mosque: Explore the stunning Selimiye Mosque, known for its beautiful Ottoman architecture. Entrance is free, and it’s a great place to learn about local history and culture.
Accommodation and Food
Stay overnight in Konya. Budget hotels cost around €40-€60 per night, while mid-range options range from €70-€100. For meals, try local specialties like “etli ekmek” (a type of Turkish pizza) and “tandir kebabi” (slow-cooked lamb). Meals typically cost around €8-€12 per person.
Additional Tips
- Plan a brief stop at a roadside café to stretch and enjoy a Turkish tea.
- Most hotels in Konya offer free parking.
- Konya is known for its conservative culture, so dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Visit local markets to buy souvenirs and experience the local lifestle.
Day 8: Konya to Antalya
After resting in Konya, set off for the stunning coastal city of Antalya. The drive covers about 300 km and takes around 4-5 hours, offering scenic views as you move from central Turkey to the Mediterranean coast.
Explore Antalya
Beaches: Start by relaxing on the famous Lara Beach or Konyaalti Beach. Both offer pristine sands and clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Beach access is free, but renting sunbeds or umbrellas may cost around €5-€10.
Kaleici (Old Town): Wander through the charming old town of Kaleici, with its narrow streets, historic houses, and vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss Hadrian’s Gate, an ancient Roman archway that marks the entrance to Kaleici.
Antalya Museum: Visit the Antalya Museum to explore fascinating artifacts and exhibits from the region’s rich history. The entry fee is around €5.
Accommodation and Food
Stay overnight in Antalya. Budget hotels cost around €50-€70 per night, while mid-range options range from €80-€120. For dining, enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Turkish dishes at local restaurants. Meals typically cost about €10-€15 per person. Try specialties like “piyaz” (bean salad) and “grilled fish”.
Additional Tips
- In Kaleici, use designated parking areas to avoid narrow streets.
- Consider taking a boat tour from the harbor to see Antalya from the sea. Prices start at around €15 per person.
- Antalya has a Mediterranean climate, so pack light, breathable clothing and sunscreen.
With its beautiful beaches and rich history, Antalya promises a memorable and relaxing stop on your Turkish road trip.
Days 9-10: Antalya to Pamukkale
After enjoying the coastal charm of Antalya, continue your journey to the natural wonder of Pamukkale. The drive covers approximately 240 km and takes around 3-4 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes.
Explore Pamukkale
Travertine Terraces: Start by visiting the stunning white travertine terraces created by mineral-rich thermal waters. The terraces are free to explore, but there is a small fee (around €5) to enter the site.
Hierapolis: Explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, located above the terraces. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers fascinating ruins, including a large arena and ancient baths. The entry fee is included with the terraces.
Thermal Pools: Don’t miss the opportunity to soak in the thermal pools known for their therapeutic properties. Cleopatra’s Pool, a famous thermal pool, has an additional entry fee of around €10.
Accommodation and Food
Stay overnight in Pamukkale. Budget hotels cost around €40-€60 per night, while mid-range options range from €70-€100. Enjoy local cuisine at nearby restaurants, with meals costing about €8-€12 per person. Try regional dishes like “gozleme” (savory pancakes) and “kebabs”.
Additional Tips
- Most hotels offer free parking. There are also designated parking areas near the terraces and ruins.
- Bring comfortable, non-slip footwear for walking on the travertines.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the terraces in the best light.
Pamukkale’s unique landscapes and ancient history make it a must-visit destination. Enjoy soaking in the thermal waters and exploring the fascinating ruins!
Day 11: Pamukkale to Ephesus
Begin your day ready for Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. The drive is approximately 190 km, takes 2-3 hours, and offers scenic views of the Turkish countryside.
Explore Ephesus
Library of Celsus: Start your tour at the Library of Celsus, an impressive Roman structure that once held thousands of scrolls. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Ephesus.
Great Theatre: Visit the Great Theatre, which could hold up to 25,000 spectators. Imagine the grand performances that took place here in ancient times.
Temple of Artemis: Explore the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although only a few columns remain, it’s a fascinating site to visit.
House of the Virgin Mary: Just a short drive from Ephesus, visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a pilgrimage site believed to be where Mary spent her last years.
Accommodation and Food
Stay overnight in the nearby town of Selçuk. Budget hotels cost around €40-€60 per night, while mid-range options range from €70-€100. Enjoy local cuisine at restaurants, with meals costing about €10-€15 per person. Don’t miss trying “Izmir kofte” (meatballs) and “baklava” for dessert.
Additional Tips
- Most hotels offer free parking. There are also parking areas near the Ephesus site.
- Consider hiring a guide at Ephesus to gain deeper insights into its history. Guides typically charge around €30-€50 for a tour.
- Carry water and wear a hat, especially during the summer, as the site can get quite hot.
Exploring Ephesus will transport you back in time, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient civilizations.
Day 12: Ephesus to Izmir
Start your morning by driving towards the city of Izmir on the Aegean coast. The journey is approximately 80 km and takes about 1-2 hours, making for a short and pleasant drive.
Explore Izmir
Kemeralti Market: Begin exploring the Kemeralti Market, a bustling bazaar filled with shops, cafes, and historic mosques. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs and taste local snacks.
Izmir Clock Tower: Visit the iconic Izmir Clock Tower in Konak Square. This beautiful structure, built in 1901, is a perfect spot for taking photos.
Ancient Agora: Get around the ancient Agora of Smyrna, an impressive archaeological site showcasing remnants of Roman civilization. Entry is around €5.
Coastal Promenade: Stroll along the Kordon, Izmir’s scenic coastal promenade. It’s lined with cafes and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the view.
Accommodation and Food
Stay overnight in Izmir. Budget hotels cost around €50-€70 per night, while mid-range options range from €80-€120. Indulge in local cuisine at one of the many seaside restaurants. Meals typically cost about €10-€15 per person. Try dishes like “boyoz” (a local pastry) and “seafood meze”.
Day 13: Izmir to Gallipoli
Start your day by heading to the historic Gallipoli Peninsula, a significant World War I site. The drive is approximately 330 km, takes around 4-5 hours, and offers scenic views of Turkey’s countryside.
Explore Gallipoli
Upon arrival in Gallipoli, immerse yourself in the poignant history of the area.
Gallipoli Battlefields: Start by visiting the Gallipoli Battlefields, where many soldiers fought during World War I. The area is dotted with moving memorials and graveyards.
ANZAC Cove: Visit ANZAC Cove, where the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps landed. This site is significant for its role in the Gallipoli Campaign.
War Memorials: Explore various war memorials, including the Lone Pine Memorial and the Chunuk Bair Memorial, which honor the soldiers who fought and died here.
Accommodation and Food
Stay overnight in a nearby town, such as Eceabat or Çanakkale. Budget hotels cost around €40-€60 per night, while mid-range options range from €70-€100. For meals, try local Turkish dishes at nearby restaurants. Meals typically cost about €8-€12 per person. Enjoy specialties like “kebabs” and “meze.”
Visiting Gallipoli provides a profound connection to history and a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made during World War I. It’s a moving and educational stop on your Turkish road trip.
Day 14: Gallipoli to Istanbul
It’s the final day of your Turkey trip, and it’s time to drive back to Istanbul from Gallipoli. The 300 km journey takes around 4-5 hours and offers a scenic drive perfect for reflecting on memorable experiences.
As you travel, take in the stunning landscapes one last time. The route provides picturesque views of the Marmara Sea and rolling countryside, creating a serene and relaxing end to your road trip. Enjoy the peaceful drive and savor the beauty of Turkey, making every moment count as you conclude your unforgettable adventure.
Essential Tips
- Leave early to avoid Istanbul's traffic, especially as you approach the city.
- Use a GPS or a reliable map app to navigate the best routes and avoid congested areas.
- Upon arrival in Istanbul, head to the car rental return area at the airport. If your rental agreement requires it, make sure to refuel the car.
Prepare for Departure
Once you’ve returned the rental car, go to the airport terminal. Allow plenty of time for check-in and security procedures. Use any extra time to relax, grab a meal, or shop at the airport.
Board your flight back to London from Istanbul, knowing you've made the most of your Turkish adventure.
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